Has everyone seen the WNBA scuffle in the Detroit Shock vs. Los Angeles Sparks game?! Initiated by Plenette Pierson, it involved a tangle with rookie sensation, Candace Parker, that actually escalated to an all out brawl. Both players and coaches left the bench and began pushing and throwing punches. Or as Bill Laimbeer was quoted, Rick Mahorn and he left the bench as “peace-makers”.

Probably the most shocking moment, was the fact that Rick Mahorn shoved Lisa Leslie so hard that she flew in the air and fell on the floor. It must have been pretty hard because Lisa Leslie is 6′5 and a strong woman. It is ridiculous that a coach can put his hands on a player like that and only be suspended for 2 games!!!! Unbelievable. (Check out the WNBA website for the list of suspensions.)

This story has received so much press and attention. I am sure that this story is not the national headline that President Donna Orender was hoping, but then again, as they say, whether good or bad, being in the headlines is always good exposure. Also, perhaps more people actually start tuning in. Despite the preconceived notions of women’s sports, maybe word spreads that it is actually very competitive and physical in the WNBA. This is what a lot of people love about sports. However, it will take time to see how this affects the WNBA in the long run.

If you have not seen it already, I highly suggest looking it up on youtube.com and watch this shocking brawl.